In the Raw

For chef and restaurateur Matthew Kenney, becoming one of the leading influences in the raw food movement happened by chance. After (reluctantly) accompanying a friend to a “raw food” restaurant, Kenney had an experience that not only changed the course of his career but also his life.

Surprised and inspired by the positive effects after his first raw meal, the classically trained chef (who had been named one of the “Ten Best New Chefs in America” by Food and Wine magazine) dedicated himself to bringing his gourmet touch and innovation to organic cuisine. In 2004, he opened his raw food restaurant, Pure Food & Wine, to rave reviews. The following year he co-authored, “Raw Food, Real World,” a recipe and lifestyle book that extolled the health benefits of a raw food diet and was embraced by the culinary world.

While many of us may not be ready to make the jump to 100% raw (where food is not heated over 110 degrees), taking a step towards good health has never tasted better. Kenney’s newest venture, Free Foods NYC, is an upscale organic cafe and catering company that serves a menu of delicious food that does the body good. Raw vegetarian favorites include jicama pad thai and their signature lasagna with zucchini, tomato, pesto, ricotta and sun dried tomato sauce. Other popular cooked yet organic dishes include selections from their market table such as crispy duck salad with candied ginger and wild salmon with pomegranate and shiitake.

When we asked the chef about his favorite new green discovery, he answered, “organic chocolate bars by Seeds of Change – their Playa del Coco (dark chocolate with coconut) is something I need everyday!”

Kenney’s new book, “Entertaining in the Raw,” comes out on May 15th, 2008. As the founder of Organic Umbrella, a lifestyle company that promotes organic living, Kenney currently works with several brands in New York, Madrid, Mexico and Florida.

Free Foods NYC
18 West 45th Street (between 5th and 6th Avenues)

To place an order for delivery or catering, call 212-302-7195 or email contact@freefoodsnyc.com.

PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of Free Foods NYC.

Eco-Chic Entertaining is a special series for the month of April that is dedicated to the best green vendors, products and services.